What is the Nutri-Score?

The goal of the Nutri-Score system is to provide consumers with an easy-to-understand visual representation of the overall nutritional quality of a food product. This allows individuals to compare different products quickly and make healthier choices as part of a balanced diet. Keep in mind that the use and implementation of Nutri-Score may vary by country or region.
The Nutri-Score is a front-of-pack labeling system designed to help consumers make healthier food choices at a glance. It was developed in France by the French Public Health Agency (Santé Publique France) in collaboration with other European countries.

Purpose

The Nutri-Score aims to provide a simple and easy-to-understand way for consumers to assess the nutritional quality of food products. It assigns a letter grade (A to E) along with a color code (from green to red) to indicate the overall nutritional quality of a product.

Calculation

The Nutri-Score is calculated based on the nutritional composition of the food product, taking into account both positive (e.g., fiber, protein) and negative (e.g., sugar, saturated fat) nutritional elements. The algorithm considers the amount of these nutrients per 100 grams or milliliters of the product and generates a score ranging from -15 (most healthy) to +40 (least healthy).

Labeling

The Nutri-Score label typically appears on the front of food packaging, making it easy for consumers to see and understand. It consists of a colored scale from green (healthiest) to red (least healthy), with corresponding letters (A to E) indicating the product's nutritional quality.

A - Nutri-Score

Criticism and Adoption

The Nutri-Score system has been adopted by several European countries, including France, Belgium, Spain, and Germany. However, it has also faced criticism from some food manufacturers and industry groups who argue that it oversimplifies nutrition and may not accurately reflect the overall healthiness of a product.

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